Minneapolis Places to Visit Between FNCE Sessions

Take it from this local Minnesotan; here are some of the best spots to fit into your conference schedule, all within a 20-minute walk of the FNCE convention center.

Best Coffee - Gray Fox Coffee & Wine: Don't just get caught up in the Instagrammable latte-art printer. Gray Fox's ever-rotating menu of seasonal drinks tastes as good as they look.

Best Lunch - Barrio: If you're tired of protein shake samples and craving something more substantial just a few steps away is Barrio. Offering great tacos, and an even better margarita. Have one at lunch, no one will even know you skipped that afternoon MNT session!

Afternoon Walk - Spoonbridge and Cherry: Conference days get long, cooped up in windowless rooms. Take a short walk through Loring Park to the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden for views of Spoonbridge and Cherry. It's a large water-spouting cherry on a spoon, I don't get it either, but it's on postcards so check it out in person along with the other 60 free art sculptures in the park.

Dinner - Gai Noi: A personal favorite, Gai Noi is a hidden gem that everyone is going to be jealous you found. Including casual rooftop seating, healthy portions, and delicious cocktails. Get the basil chicken wings and thank me later.

Evening Cocktail - Hewing Rooftop Bar: You might have to do a slight jog to get here in less than 20 minutes, but the Hewing Rooftop is not too classy, not too drab, and the perfect place to enjoy an Old Fashioned overlooking the Minneapolis skyline.

Bonus Spots - If you want to stretch your legs further out check out James Beard Winning Chef at Owamni by the Sioux Chef, but book your table now. Afterward, head over to Minnesota's best dessert spot; Edwards Dessert Kitchen. If you're looking for something more casual, my personal favorite pizza spot is Black Sheep Coal Fired Pizzas.